Synonyms of supersede

supersede

verb

ˌsü-pər-ˈsēd 

as in to replace

to take the place of

that edition of the dictionary that you have has been superseded by a more recent one

Synonyms & Similar Words

• replace
• supplant
• substitute
• relieve
• displace
• usurp
• displant
• preempt
• cut out

Synonym Chooser

How is the word supersede distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of supersede are displace, replace, and supplant. While all these words mean "to put out of a usual or proper place or into the place of another," supersede implies replacing a person or thing that has become superannuated, obsolete, or otherwise inferior.

the new edition supersedes all previous ones

When is it sensible to use displace instead of supersede?

The synonyms displace and supersede are sometimes interchangeable, but displace implies an ousting or dislodging.

war had displaced thousands

When can replace be used instead of supersede?

While the synonyms replace and supersede are close in meaning, replace implies a filling of a place once occupied by something lost, destroyed, or no longer usable or adequate.

replaced the broken window

Where would supplant be a reasonable alternative to supersede?

The meanings of supplant and supersede largely overlap; however, supplant implies either a dispossessing or usurping of another's place, possessions, or privileges or an uprooting of something and its replacement with something else.

was abruptly supplanted in her affections by another

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of supersede

So the longevity of her dream somehow supersedes Julia’s dream? —Brian Moylan, Vulture, 26 Sep. 2025

The moves do not supersede Scripps’ previously announced plans to build a new hospital in San Marcos, though that investment will move closer to state Route 78. —Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Sep. 2025

Federal prosecutors then issued a superseding indictment one year later charging them with 27 counts. —Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 22 Sep. 2025

Who paid for the fence does matter—but that should never supersede your good manners. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2025

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